Absolutely loved this race. From the iconic start line of the Champs Elysees, running past stunning palaces, the banks of the Seine, the Eiffel Tower, some nice rural parks and the finish line looking back up towards the Arc De Triomphe... whats not to like!

London may have its huge crowds of supporters and its fancy dress but Paris tops it for me in beauty and splendor.

Thats not to say that Paris isn't well supported, its just not 5 deep like London is. In fact the support was fantastic all the way round with at least a dozen bands entertaining the corwds and runners.

One major difference from most marathons is the staggered start times. I selected a leisurely (ha, yeah right) 4:15 estimated finish time and my wave started a good 90 minutes after the elites. This lead to a leisurely start and panic free bag drop / toilet and last minute fuelling before a 9:45 start time. I don't think I've ever had such a stress free lead up to a mararthon which is pretty impressive considering with 55,000 entrants it's the 2nd largest in the world.

My favourite part of the race was the 3-4 miles along the banks of the Seine at around 15 miles. This was really well supported and the views along this section are just stunning. 

One thing to note for British entrants (well, all entrants actually) is that you need a signed dioctors note saying youy are fit to run. Whilst this is easily obtained from yuour GOP it can take a good few weeks to get the appointment and letter an dthere could be a charge. Best sort this out early so that you know its taken care of.

All in all an excellent Marathon thats up there with some of the best city marathons in the world.!